Top 5 Medium Dog Car Seats: Safety & Comfort Review

Does your furry friend wiggle and whine during car rides, turning your commute into a chaotic adventure? You love taking your medium-sized dog along, but keeping them safe and comfortable in the car can feel like a constant battle. Finding the perfect car seat for your mid-sized companion is tricky. You worry about their safety in case of sudden stops, and you definitely don’t want muddy paw prints all over your upholstery!

Many seats are either too small, feeling cramped for your growing pup, or too bulky, taking up too much valuable space. It’s frustrating trying to figure out which features actually matter for dogs between 20 and 50 pounds. Stop guessing and start traveling with peace of mind. By the end of this post, you will know exactly what features to look for, how to measure correctly, and which seats offer the best blend of security and comfort for your beloved dog.

Let’s dive in and transform your next road trip from stressful to smooth sailing with the ultimate guide to Medium Dog Car Seats.

Top Medium Dog Car Seat Recommendations

SaleBestseller No. 1

JOEJOY Elevated Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs up to 35 lbs, Memory Foam Booster Seat with Detachable Washable Cover, Travel-Safe Car Bed with Safety Belts & Storage Pockets, Grey

【Elevated Comfort for Your Furry Friend】: With its elevated design, this pet car seat raises your pet 5 inches above the car seat, allowing them to enjoy a better view of the outside world while reducing car anxiety. Whether it’s a short trip to the vet or a longer road trip, your dog will love the added comfort and feel more at ease in the car.
【Comfort with Dual-Sided Design】: The two-sided design of this dog car seat features soft, short plush fabric on one side and breathable, comfort-enhancing faux leather on the other. This dual-material design ensures your furry friend stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter, providing year-round comfort. The high-density memory foam filling delivers superior support, minimizing the impact of road bumps and vibrations for a smoother, more enjoyable ride for your pet.
【Safe and Secure】: This pet car seat features a built-in adjustable safety belts to secure your dog’s harness, preventing them from jumping out the window. The non-slip bottom and headrest strap keep the seat stable and secure, ensuring your pet stays safe and comfortable throughout the journey.
【Ideal Size for Small and Medium dogs】: Measuring 19.0 in (L)X 18.0 in (W) X 18.5 in (H), the puppy car seat can accommodate all types of small and medium dogs up to 30 pounds, or two small dogs up to 15 pounds. It fits in the front or back seats of cars, SUVs and trucks. WARM TIP: Please measure your pet before purchasing
【Easy Installation and Maintenance】: Setting up your JOEJOY dog booster seat is a breeze. Simply thread the car seat belt through the designated holes on the bottom and secure the top strap to the car headrest. Adjust the straps to the right length, and the car seat is ready to go! The removable cover is easy to unzip, making it simple to wash and keep your dog’s car seat clean.

SaleBestseller No. 2

VavoPaw Dog Car Seat for Medium Dog, Dogs Booster Seat Under 50Lbs or 2 Small Dogs Washable, Pet Car Seats with 2 Safety Leashes, Pets Sofa Bed Cushion Add Thick Sponge, Pet Cars Carrier for Travel

Security and Comfort: The dog bed for car is made of hard-wearing polyester fiber that is strong and long-lasting. High quality sponge padding provides stable support to the bottom and sides of the dog booster car seat, creating a cosy and comfortable space for your beloved pet. 4.5-inch thick sponge cushion raises the pet car seat, dog car seat allowing most dogs to enjoy the view out the window and relieve travel anxiety.
Ample Space: Designed for pet-owning families, this dog carseat is suitable for most cars. It measures 27.9 x 18.8in, about the size of 2 seats in the dog car seat medium size dog. The medium dog car seat holds up to 50lbs and provides ample space for medium or 2 small dogs under 25lbs. Side pocket can be used to store pet toys. With the company of toys, your pet is not bored on the go.
Multiple Fixing Design: The medium dog car seat is designed with multiple fixing, including a car seat pin, a car seatbelt fixing, a lanyard attached to the rear seat headrest and 2 pet safety belts. The non-slip bottom increases stability. With this dog car seats for medium dogs, you can focus on driving with confidence and enjoy a safe journey with your pet.
Machine Washable: The car dog seat for dogs is a removable short plush cover. It is waterproof fabric for easy daily tidying. Dust and stains on the dog booster car seat surface can be effortlessly wiped off with a damp cloth. When you need to clean it, open the side zips, take out the sponges and then put the seat cover into the washing machine. The machine-washable design of the funny dog car seat saves your time, so you can spend more precious time with your furry friend.
Easy to Install: The dog car seat medium sized dog is easy to install without tools. Just 4 steps to complete and start a safe and enjoyable journey with your pets. Tips: It is vacuum compressed packaging. After opening the package, please wait patiently for 24-48 hours for it to recover to the best condition.

Bestseller No. 3

Dog Car Seat for Small/Medium Dogs, Memory Foam Dog Booster Seat, Travel Safety Per Car Seat with Washable Removable Cover, Storage Pockets for Dogs up to 35 lbs(Gray)

【Optimal Size】: This dog car seat measures 17 in (L) X 17 in (W) X 19 in (H), providing ample space for up to two small puppies or one medium-sized dog weighing under 35 lbs. Suitable for breeds like Yorkshire Terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Dachshunds, Shih Tzus, cats, puppies, and more. Refer to the provided picture for specific size details.
【Perfect View, Happy Pup】Boost your pet up by 6 inches, so they can enjoy the scenery outside the window. Whether it’s a quick errand or a long road trip, this dog booster seat keeps your pup entertained and reduces their anxiety, making every trip a breeze.
【Comfortable and Skin-Friendly】: Made from premium crystal velvet fabric, this dog car seat is incredibly soft and skin-friendly. The luxurious material ensures your pet stays comfortable and relaxed, whether on the road or at home.
【Secure and Stable Design】: Our dog car bed features a built-in pet leash and uses both bottom and top seat fixings to keep the seat stable and your pet secure. This design prevents the seat from shifting, ensuring a safe and comfortable journey for your furry friend.
【Multi-scene Use and Easy Maintenance】: This dog car seat is not only suitable for use in cars but can also be used at home, outdoors, in a tent, or anywhere you can imagine. It features large capacity storage side pockets on both sides, providing a convenient spot to store doggy snacks, puppy kibble, and other essentials. No installation required – our dog booster seat is ready to use right out of the box. It comes vacuum-packed and fully expands to its optimal shape within 24 hours. The dog booster seat is fully removable and washable. Open the bottom zipper, take out the sponge, and clean the cover, ensuring your pet always has a clean and comfortable space.

Bestseller No. 4

K&H Pet Products Buckle N Go Dog Car Seat for Large Dogs, Waterproof Fabric, Breathable Mesh Sides, Adjustable Seat Belt Leash, Carseat for Medium to Large Pets, Car Seat Cover - 21 X 19 X 19in

LARGE DOG CAR SEAT: Dog car seat for pets provides a safe, secure and restrained location for your pet to ride, while the mesh windows allow your pet to view out and provide additional air flow
SAFETY FIRST: Includes an adjustable dog seat belt tether to prevent your pet from jumping out; front and rear straps loop around headrests to secure, and the bottom is rigid / solid for stability
QUICK INSTALLATION: Quick to install and uninstall and folds flat for easy storage; can be used on the left or right side of the backseat of a vehicle
SIZING: Medium / Large dog car seat measures 21 X 19 X 19; this size dog car seat is great for medium and large dogs; we recommend measuring your pet and your car to ensure the perfect fit
EASY ACCESS: New side zippers provide convenient access from either side, making it easy for your pet to enter and exit when you are on the go

Bestseller No. 5

WOOAIDAGG Dog Car Seat for Medium Sized Dog,Pet Travel Car Bed with Seat Belt Channle,Fully Detachable and Washable Car Dog Seat with Adjustable Straps,3 Straps Easy to Install (Black)

Fashionable:The Wooaidagg dog car seat features a sleek design that enhances its beauty,Filled with comfortable memory foam and wrapped in super-soft fabric,it helps ease pets' anxiety during long journeys
Safety:The Wooaidagg Dog Booster Car Seat puts safety first with adjustable shoulder straps,an adjustable dog leash,and a bottom harness channel.These features keep pets safe during the ride and give drivers peace of mind to focus on the road
Variety:The Wooaidagg dog booster car seat comes in various styles,ensuring there's one that suits your pet perfectly,All options offer the same comfort, safety,and ease of installation
Easy Maintenance:The Wooaidagg dog booster car seat is fully removable and washable so it can be cleaned and reassembled with ease,Please consider the size of your pet before choosing,the size of dog car seat is (20 inches * 20 inches * 20 inches)
Stability:The Wooaidagg dog car seat is designed with a harness channel at the bottom,allowing you to secure it securely to the car seat using a harness,adjustable straps on the cushion provide extra stability and protection while driving

SaleBestseller No. 6

NEEZUKAR Dog Car Seat for Small Medium Dogs,Detachable Washable Dog Booster Seat Under 30lbs, Pet Car Seat Travel Bed with Storage Pockets and Dog Safety Belt (Black)

Keep Your Pet Safe: This dog car seat can be secured with the car seat belt and headrest belt to prevent movement ,plus use the included safety leash to fasten to your dog's harness,no more worrying about the safety of your puppy while driving
Small Dog Car Seat: 19.7 in (L) X 19.4 in (W) X 12.5 in (H), The pet car seat is suitable for small medium dogs and cats up to 30 lbs,It is designed to fit almost all types of vehicles,cars,trucks,SUVS,you can easily install it in the front or back seat as your needs
Comfortable Material: The surface of the dog booster seat with ultra-soft short plush fabric, the interior is filled with high-density sponge,which can effectively reduce the impact of road bumps and bring your dog a comfortable journey
Multifunctional Use: With storage bags on both sides designed, you can place pet toys and dog supplies on the car seat for dogs to save space. in addition, you can remove the seat belt and put it in the pocket,then used it as a dog bed at home, outdoors or in the tent
Removable and Washable: This dog car booster seat is completely removable and washable, just open the bottom zipper to take out the sponge and put the dog car bed fabric cover into the washing machine for cleaning

Bestseller No. 7

Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dog Booster Seat Under 60 lbs or 2 Small Dogs, Multi-Functional Pet Car Seat with Thick Cushion, 2 Safety Leashes (Gray)

Premium Material for Ultimate Comfort: Crafted from high-quality crystal velvet fabric and high-elastic sponge, our dog car seat offers a plush and cozy environment for your pets. The soft, breathable fabric ensures comfort during long journeys, while the durable sponge maintains its shape and provides excellent support.
Multi-Functional Design for Versatile Use: This dog booster seat is perfect for medium to large dogs or two small dogs, fitting seamlessly into the back seat or trunk of your car. It's not just a car seat; it also doubles as a travel dog bed and sofa cushion, making it a versatile addition to your pet's accessories.
Enhanced Visibility and Reduced Anxiety: The thick, elevated cushion design allows your pets to enjoy a better view out the window, helping to reduce travel anxiety and motion sickness. Your furry friends will feel more secure and entertained, making car rides more pleasant for both you and your pets.
Convenient Storage Solutions: Equipped with two spacious side pockets, this pet car seat provides ample storage for pet snacks, toys, leashes, and other essentials. Keep everything organized and within easy reach, ensuring a hassle-free travel experience.
Safety and Stability Assured: Safety is our top priority. The car seat features two secure safety leashes to keep your pets in place and prevent them from jumping out. Additionally, the seat is firmly fixed with straps that go under and around the car seat, ensuring it stays stable and secure during the journey. The entire seat is washable, making it easy to keep clean and fresh.

SaleBestseller No. 8

Dog Car Seat for Medium/Large Dogs up to 60 lbs, Memory Foam Dog Booster Seat with Thick Cushion, Pet Car Seat for Back with Detachable Washable Cover, Storage Pockets for SUV, Pick Up, Trunk, Grey

Perfectly Sized for Comfort: This 35″ L x 22.5″ W x 13.7″ H dog car seat offers a spacious yet cozy ride, securely fitting medium to large dogs or two small dogs in your car's back seat or trunk. More than just a dog car seat, it easily doubles as a travel dog bed and a cozy sofa cushion at home, seamlessly adapting to your pet's needs wherever you go.
Versatile and Practical: This dog booster car seat is designed with raised bone-shaped sides for security and comfort. Crafted from premium crystal velvet fabric and filled with high-resilience sponge, it provides excellent support while effectively minimizing road vibrations. Built to maintain its shape over time.
Thickened & Elevated Comfort: The plush, waterproof 3.14 inch cushion of car seat for dog raises your dog to a comfortable window view. The floating base minimizes vehicle vibrations, helping ease anxiety and motion sickness, while the sturdy sponge maintains its shape and provides excellent support made every ride is calm and enjoyable.
Convenient & Safety Travel: This dog car seat includes two large back pockets to keep treats, toys, leashes, and waste bags neatly stored and within easy reach—so you never have to search for supplies on the go. It also features two built-in safety leashes to secure your pet and prevent jumping, while adjustable straps underneath and around the car seat ensure a stable and snug fit throughout the journey.
Easy to Clean & Maintain: The fully detachable design allows all components of the pet car seat to be quickly removed and reassembled. The sturdy and smooth surface resists dirt and odors, simply wiping or machine washing for effortless care. The raised backrest also protects your car seats from paws and fur, keeping your interior clean.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Medium Dog Car Seats

Taking your medium-sized dog on car rides should be safe and fun for everyone. A good car seat keeps your furry friend secure and comfortable. This guide helps you pick the best one.

Key Features to Look For

When shopping, look closely at these important parts:

Safety and Security

Harness/Leash Attachments: The seat must have strong loops or clips. These connect directly to your dog’s harness. This stops them from jumping around.
Seat Anchor Straps: These straps wrap around the car’s headrest or clip into the seat belt system. They hold the booster seat firmly in place.
Non-Slip Bottom: A rubberized or textured bottom prevents the seat from sliding, even during sharp turns.

Comfort and Size

Dimensions: Measure your dog while they are sitting or lying down. Make sure the seat gives them enough room to turn around comfortably, but not so much room that they slide around.
Padded Sides/Bolsters: Raised edges offer a feeling of security, like a hug. They also keep your dog from falling out if you stop suddenly.
Headrest Height: For booster-style seats, the back needs to be high enough so your dog can see out the window without straining their neck.

Important Materials Matter

The materials decide how long the seat lasts and how easy it is to clean.

Durability and Cleaning

Outer Fabric: Look for heavy-duty, water-resistant fabrics like durable nylon or canvas. These resist scratches from claws.
Waterproof Liners: Accidents happen! A waterproof or water-resistant liner protects your car seats underneath.
Sturdy Filling: The padding should be dense foam, not cheap, thin batting. Good foam keeps its shape after many uses.

Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality

Some design choices make a big difference in the overall quality of the product.

Quality Boosters

Easy Installation: Seats that use simple buckle systems or quick-release clips are much better. You should be able to install or remove it in minutes.
Removable, Washable Covers: The cover must come completely off and be machine washable. This is essential for hygiene.
Integrated Safety Harnesses: Some high-quality seats include a tether strap built right into the design.

Quality Reducers (Watch Outs)

Thin Straps: Flimsy plastic buckles or thin nylon straps might break under pressure.
Excessive Noise: Cheaply made plastic frames can rattle loudly when the car moves.
Poor Stitching: If you see loose threads or weak seams, the seat will likely fail quickly.

User Experience and Use Cases

Think about how you use your car most often.

Different Needs

Booster Style (Elevated): These are great for smaller medium dogs (like Beagles or smaller Spaniels). They help short dogs see out the window, which reduces anxiety on long trips.
Bench Style (Full Coverage): These cover more of the back seat. They work well for dogs who like to sprawl out or for owners who often transport two pets.
Travel vs. Daily Use: If you travel often, choose a seat that folds flat easily for storage. If it is for daily use, focus more on deep padding and easy cleaning.

A comfortable dog is a calm dog. If your dog feels secure and can see their surroundings, car rides become much less stressful for both of you.

10 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Medium Dog Car Seats

Q: What size dog counts as “medium”?

A: Generally, medium dogs weigh between 25 and 50 pounds. Always check the seat’s weight limit, usually listed by the manufacturer.

Q: Can I use a regular dog bed instead of a car seat?

A: No. A regular bed does not secure to the car. Without secure straps, the bed and your dog become dangerous projectiles in a sudden stop.

Q: Are these seats safe for the airbag deployment zone?

A: You must never place a dog seat where a side airbag deploys (usually the side doors). For maximum safety, place the seat in the back middle seat or on the side where there is no active side airbag.

Q: How often should I clean the car seat?

A: You should wipe down the surface weekly. The whole cover should be machine washed at least once a month, or immediately after any major mess.

Q: Do I still need a harness if my dog is in a car seat?

A: Yes, absolutely. The harness connects your dog to the seat’s safety tether. The seat restrains the booster, and the harness restrains the dog within the booster.

Q: Will this seat protect my leather seats?

A: Yes, most high-quality seats have waterproof barriers underneath. They protect against fur, dirt, drool, and accidents.

Q: What is the difference between a booster and a hammock?

A: A booster is a raised box or basket that secures your dog up high. A hammock covers the entire back seat area and hangs from the front and back headrests, preventing falls into the footwell.

Q: Can my dog ride in the front seat?

A: It is much safer for dogs to ride in the back seat. If you must use the front, ensure the passenger airbag is completely turned off if the seat is booster style.

Q: How do I stop the seat from moving when my dog shifts weight?

A: Check that the headrest anchor straps are pulled very tight. Some seats also use the car’s built-in LATCH system for extra stability.

Q: Are these seats hard to install?

A: Modern seats are designed for easy installation. Look for clear instructions and simple buckle designs. If installation seems confusing, read user reviews about the setup process.